Google Reviews

Since I joined the A.C.W.A., I have been amazed by what I’ve learned. This is a class that teaches you things that you can apply to the real world not just in class. The atmosphere is great. Everyone is encouraging, upbeat, and excited to be there. The class is also adaptable to everyone. Each person can find movements that work for them and ways to utilize their strengths and discover and improve their weaknesses. We learn real world practical self defense and after just a month I already feel more confident because I am able to protect myself. I think that everyone should have the experience of taking this class.

What really sets the A.C.W.A. apart from other organizations that teach self defense is the understanding that self defense is practical only when it can be learned quickly and efficiently. Where many martial arts studios limit you to what you can learn in a certain amount of time, the instruction here at the A.C.W.A. is designed to teach as much as you can learn in as little or as much time as you need. I now feel much safer when I go out knowing what I’ve learned. Excellent instructors, practical and effective lessons, at a very reasonable rate make this program one of a kind. Time and money well spent!

The A.C.W.A. is awesome! I have a varied background in the martial arts, but this group is something different. I have been in and out of the martial arts all of my life. Tae Kwon do, Thai Boxing, Aikido, Capoeira, MMA…You name it, I did it…I spent a lot of time and money trying to find something that made sense. No long katas, no fancy moves. Something that just worked when you needed it. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING compares to the A.C.W.A.! I learned more practical skills in my first few months there than in 14 years worth of traditional training. Now I know I can take care of my self when the $hit hits the fan. But the most important thing the A.C.W.A taught me was how to keep myself out of bad situations. Justin’s classes on “situational awareness” are worth the price of admission alone. Why don’t other schools teach this?

I have been a team member of A.C.W.A. since January and I have learned so much. Each week I look forward to coming and bettering my skills. You learn the tools to defend from things that happen in real life situations. The instructors are super helpful and they make it easy to learn. The class can be intense sometimes but Justin makes it a fun atmosphere to train. This is a great program and I would recommend it to anyone.

It seems I attract the wrong sort of people, those who want to try to take advantage of me, follow me home, etc. Thus far I have been lucky, nothing has escalated to be physical in nature, but I knew if I did not do something, eventually my luck would run out. I started looking for answers, but found mostly “martial arts” stuff that would take me years of practice and did not look real practical anyway. I ended up searching “self defense” and found the A.C.W.A. website and decided to give them a call. I was a bit nervous; this was new to me, but I decided what the hell ;-) Everyone was really nice and the class went at a pace that I could really learn at. I feel comfortable with everyone here and I get the opportunity to train with both men and women. So if you are like me and want real life skills and practical self defense that you can ACTUALLY use in a short amount of time, then give them a call, I’m glad I did.

This is a great class for anyone with a willingness to be prepared for a situation where you may have to rely on yourself alone to protect you and your loved ones. I’m just a regular guy and I have no aspirations to be the next mixed martial arts champion so this class is perfect for me. The focus of the classes cover a wide variety of topics such as strikes, defensive positions, handling weapon threats and also encompasses the psychological aspects of confrontation. All the topics are always grounded in the “real world” where there is no soft mat or referee. We have a wide range of students both male and female, young and young at heart. Justin is an easy going instructor and makes class fun but challenging with his passion for the subject. I urge you to come check out a session and decide for yourself.

Never in my life have I been able to learn any form of self defense. I have tried it all from Kung-Fu to Tae Kwon Do to MMA and failed each time due to the fact that I could never learn forms, which to me, were simply useless. At a free MMA meetup group, I ran into Justin Everman as he was invited there to show his art. Wow! I was so impressed at what I learned in that one night! Being 5 foot nothing and 95-100 lbs kind of makes me a target to men and bigger girls. Let’s just say that if you have no confidence and have a learning curve like I do, then this is the ONLY way to learn the best real life self defense for the real world.

Through some changes in my life, I searched for a different style and was referred to the A.C.W.A. as an alternative to the traditional martial arts. I found that the A.C.W.A. Combatives training takes the fundamentals of what works from many styles and creates what I like to called an applied sciences of martial arts. This is training in a real setting with different variables so you work with your instincts instead of a technique. You learn to defend under pressure and how the body reacts when you perform the techniques. Whether you are young, small, overweight, short, tall, in shape, older, have training or no training this academy has answers that will work for you. I strongly recommend this academy as the training is applicable to reality.

I’m a single dad to a 6 year old girl. I joined the academy for a fun way to stay active and learn how to better defend myself and my family. The academy teaches real solutions that anyone can use for self defense. You don’t need to be coordinated or have any martial arts experience to learn this. I highly recommend giving them a call and trying out a class! You won’t be disappointed.

As former LEO and studying multiple systems, I can say that this is the best school of training I have seen. There is something here for everyone!

After doing various other martial arts for about seven years. Three months after joining, I had overwritten nearly all of my previous training with better, more applicable techniques. Everything just makes sense.

The class is informative and fun; I’ ve studied martial arts before, and before I discovered this class, I expected to have to bounce around in various disciplines to get everything offered here. The moves taught are the most effective I’ve seen, and Justin adds psychology to make them–and you–even more effective.

A.C.W.A. Combatives builds big ability fast! I was truly impressed at the real-world applications and training that come from the A.C.W.A.! We are trained in scenarios that happen every day around us, just turn on your six-o clock news! A.C.W.A. has benefited me by giving me extreme confidence to handle many real-world situations. Being a practitioner and a 1st degree black belt in karate, the strategies, techniques that I learn in A.C.W.A. has taken me at least three years to learn in karate, but A.C.W.A. takes it to another level with the ease of learning each and every technique that is natural in movement. The instructors are very friendly, skilled, and want to see the success in all their students. I highly endorse both A.C.W.A. Combatives as your first options in self-defense training. It is well worth the investment.

I grow more confident every day. This is something anyone can learn! The classes are fun and informative. There’s no ego or arrogance, so don’t be shy if you’ve never taken any classes like this before. I started taking classes 3 years ago with absolutely no experience and have been loving it ever since! Everyone should at least try it once. You’ll be hooked!

Training in this class has been a life changing experience. It blows my mind all of the situations that could have arisen for which I would have had no response. Why guess how you’d react if you were attacked or had to defend yourself or your loved ones? Get a solid plan. From the first day of class I found that I carried myself differently. Justin is the best instructor I’ve ever had for anything I’ve ever tried to learn. Most rote schooling or other classic forms of teaching expect everyone to understand everything the same way. Justin gives you the explanation that YOU understand. I’ve had more light bulbs go off from his teaching methods in a short amount of time than I’ve had with years in my other studies. Take this class. Change your life. Get a plan or passively be a victim.

The A.C.W.A teaches a unique approach to self-defense that is easily learned and has real world applications. I never thought I’d be taught to get out of zip tie “hand cuffs” using nothing but shoe laces. Justin’s passion for what he teaches makes classes interesting and best of all, fun! Interested in disarming someone with a knife, gun, or even fending off multiple attackers? If so, this is the place for you.

I believe that the greatest successes are born from having true passion for what you are doing. That passion is exactly what Mr. Everman possesses when it comes to Combatives. I truly believe that he eats, sleeps and breathes self-defense… and this is the kind of individual that you want instructing. During the time that I was a student in Mr. Everman’s class, I learned how to adapt and respond to situations that previously I would have felt helpless in. His program changed the way I approach all aspects of my life, from business to relationships to self-defense. Mr. Everman’s instruction can be challenging, but it will ultimately allow a student to grow as a person in ways they never imagined possible.

I’ve always been a smaller guy, and any experience I have with self-defense was from observation and self-instruction. My bro kept pushing me to come join and man am I glad I did. I was able to earn my white belt in only a few months, and I genuinely feel like I can better defend myself in a real-life situation. In this style, aspects of body physiology and natural reactions are combined with brutally effective techniques to create a unique style. I love how scientific principles are used to develop these devastating techniques that even folks without a body-builders physique can perform to incredible effect. If you’re looking for a martial art to win trophies in competitions, this is not the place for you. If you’re looking for a defensive style to give you a good chance of getting out of a bad real-life situation, I can’t recommend the A.C.W.A. enough.

Justin and his team of instructors are great. They will answer any questions you may have and work with you to develop the tools that you already have while showing a few that you didn’t know about. Unlike traditional schools that might teach you how to protect yourself in several years, here you will learn practical defenses on your very first day. Probably the greatest things about this school are that there are no silly uniforms to wear and no stances to stand in for hours practicing how to block an imaginary opponent from the middle of the 15th century. Here you learn wearing normal clothes practicing against another person. What you will learn here is how to block attackers wielding weapons, fight off attackers from the ground, how to get out of choke holds and how to protect yourself in close quarters situations that we all find ourselves in, like between cars in a parking lot. Oh yeah, there are no competitions and no trophies to earn in this, this is not a sport, this is for real. The only trophy you will get if you ever need to use it is being able to walk away, your attacker, well…he might not be so lucky. Check it out and see for yourself, the first class is free, and there is no pressure to sign up. What do you have to lose? Besides fear.

For years I have wanted to get involved in martial arts for self-defense purposes. Most of the classes I checked out either involved huge egos and too much testosterone, or many years of study before anything would be useful (or all of the above). Then I found A.C.W.A. After a single class, I had some new tools I could use to defend myself, and it made sense as to when and why I would use them. A.C.W.A. is intuitive and easy to learn, and it WORKS. It was surprising to learn that someone of my petite size could defend against a 200+ pound man with ease, in many different situations. There’s absolutely no ego involved at this academy, either. In fact, Justin’s philosophy is “It doesn’t matter what I can do, but what YOU can do.” The rest of the instructors have this same mindset as well. Individual attention from the instructors is common, to make sure you are comfortable and grasping the material and concepts. If you are looking for a competition sport, this isn’t it. But if you are looking for something that will help you get home safe at the end of the day; you owe it to yourself to pay a visit to the Academy of Combative Warrior Arts.

I’ve been doing martial arts for several years and I’m usually very picky about the schools that I choose. It normally takes me a month or so to finally make a decision but this time it was fairly easy. The instructors were helpful and knowledgeable. They actually taught real life skills rather than doing the ABC’s for several months unlike most of the traditional schools I have joined/taught at. I highly recommend checking out the classes. There a great group of motivated and likeminded people.

I’ve loved every class so far and can’t wait to do more! The techniques are practical and logical. I love that the trainers are patient and take the time to work with you one-on-one to go over things again and to answer questions. They work on rewiring your brain to use your natural instincts and turning them to your advantage. I like the personalized attention in each class; it doesn’t matter how much experience you have – just join right in at any time.

Great instructors with the knowledge to convey how to properly defend yourself and feel comfortable doing it. Everyone teaches everyone atmosphere. From the start you can tell it is nothing like a “normal” self-defense class or martial art. A very welcoming feel and safe environment that helps you to overcome any doubts you have about self-protection and ability. Very glad I joined this group of people and look forward to more training.

I came to the free trial class that A.C.W.A offers and my world was completely rocked. Everything I knew about martial arts/ self-defense from my past (even though a good base to have) was completely turned upside down by the easy and efficient tool sets that Justin equipped me with to halt opponents in their tracks…In short, everything that you THINK you know about martial arts and/or self-defense will be seriously rocked and/or PROVEN WRONG if you are deciding to attend the A.C.W.A classes. The immediate family like atmosphere will support you in any walk of life you are in, and will adhere to any needs that you have in regards to self-defense. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND anyone and everyone to give Justin a call immediately if you’re looking for that next/ final level of self-defense education!

I first came across A.C.W.A. when I was looking for a self defense class that did not revolve around competing. I wanted to learn how to defend myself in the event that I needed to, not just belt up. A.C.W.A is exactly what I was looking for and I would recommend these classes to everyone I know. Justin is immensely knowledgeable and is an excellent teacher. Through practicing this form of self-defense you will be prepared for whatever situation you may find yourself in, even if that only means possessing an increased awareness of your surroundings.

Violence…we are exposed to it in our favorite crime shows and action movies. We hear tragic stories about horrific acts done to innocent people. Other people. The threat seems so far removed from our everyday lives but that got me thinking; what if one day I’m one of those “other” people? I didn’t have the first clue about how to effectively defend myself. It was in that moment that I made a decision to stop living passively in a false sense of security and take control of my own safety. I started training at A.C.W.A. in January of this year and it’s been one the best decisions I’ve ever made! Having never taken a self-defense class before I had no idea what to expect but Justin Everman and his staff are incredibly welcoming, patient and professional. They all have a knack for making what could be intimidating training a whole heck of a lot of fun! The techniques and mechanics are practical and applicable for all ages and all body types/sizes. I always had the impression that because I’m only 5’5″ there was no way I could take down anyone taller than me let alone a grown man or heaven forbid more than one attacker. It’s only been 5 weeks but what I’ve learned is that impression is a lie. If you ask yourself: what if one day I’m one of those “other” people? And the answer is anything like mine; I highly encourage you to check out A.C.W.A! You’ll be glad you did.

If you’ve ever thought “Someday I should learn how to defend myself just in case”; your someday is now! I signed up because I occasionally like to take a risk and leave my house without a 20 man security team. I was impressed at my very first lesson how easy the training was to grasp and apply in real life situations. No silly uniforms or pumped up egos required. I’ve continued to train with A.C.W.A. for 4 months now; it’s amazing how fun it is to learn a practical skill with them and I enjoy the feeling of safety and confidence I get to carry in life now. The folks running A.C.W.A. are 100% about teaching you real world skills to keep you and your family safe at a very reasonable price. You don’t have to walk through life feeling unsafe or worried about being a victim. Learn what to do now.

Literally the highlight of my week! This has to be the most fun and valuable class I've ever attended. The skills I've learned in just a few weeks are so practical and helpful that you carry it with you into your everyday life.

Justin is very knowledgeable and passionate about what he teaches. It's extremely empowering to realize there is a way to counter and dominate any attack.

Everyone and their mamma needs to attend!

I was involved in a roadside altercation. A knife was concealed in the aggressors hand and I was cut it the throat. That day I learned while I thought I had skills, I did not. But taking this self defence class meant that I was just simply untrained and unprepared for the realities that could face us all. I took a bad situation and learned my vulnerabilities and now am gaining the knowlege that I will make better choices next time, learn skills that will make me better able to defend myself in a world that does not always fight fair. It is empowering to me to know that if I ever find myself in a potential ke that situation, I am now slowly learning skills that can save my life and the cheaters will no longer have such an easy target. Class is well taught and worth the money and will help you regain your confidence.

If you are looking for Self Defense Classes in the Dallas area, I recommend A.C.W.A self defense Academy in Richardson. I encountered a situation that prompted me to start looking for a class to learn to protect myself. I wanted a class I could do being a little older with health concerns. I have been attending over a year now and I have learnt many techniques to protect myself and learned to do so in a safe supporting environment. Justin has perfected the art of combining different martial arts into real life applications that almost any person can achieve. The peace and knowledge that I can protect myself if the need arises is priceless.

I’m about 6 weeks in with A.C.W.A. and I’m having a great experience. It has surpassed my expectations and the skills I’m learning are incredible. What I’ve always wanted to learn but without all the BS. Justin and his staff are outstanding. It’s clearly evident he cares about his students, delivering real value and guiding us to be fully equipped to protect ourselves and loved one’s. I highly recommend you come see for yourself. I’m confident you will not be disappointed.

My friend and I started taking this class after seeing a lot of defeating propaganda on social media and decided we wanted to be able to defend ourselves. Ever since going, I’ve learned ways to defend myself in every day situations in every day clothes. I really enjoy that the instructors take the time to make sure students learn both in the group setting as well as individually. Since going I feel much more confident and look forward to going to the classes.

I have been attending classes for about one month. I have much to learn, but my level of awareness of how to protect myself is shifting! I am learning things I can use immediately. I feel empowered and strong and it's helping me deal with some personal issues, which is what prompted me to sign up. Justin and his instructors are talented and kind. The facility is clean and inviting. The cost is worth the investment in myself. I couldn't have made better choice in signing up!

The main obstacle I faced in joining this program was the fear of the unknown. When I first heard about it, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I decided to take the leap and embrace the opportunity, and I’m so glad I did.

As a result, I learned to push past my own fears and just ask questions. This program truly helped me discover the “superpower” I never knew I had. The instructor shared personal stories to show us the importance of not settling for what’s handed to us, and to have the courage to ask for more. One key lesson that stood out was the phrase “don’t order from the menu of life,” which taught me to challenge the status quo. I also learned to stop getting in my own way and to question everything that’s presented to me. In the end, the program culminated in a fun, interactive game that allowed me to apply everything I had learned. I would highly recommend this program to everyone.

Coach Justin is extremely knowledgeable on every aspect he teaches. My husband & I started self defense classes not too long ago; since day one we were comfortable talking to him & letting him know our concerns/ fears. He teaches us as a couple; how we can read each other & know what each other are thinking without saying a word. He is able to fit so much information into one hour. He teaches you real life situations & how to get out of them safely. Coach Justin has gone above & beyond our expectations. He is worth every penny & you definitely get your money's worth.

This is practical, usable stuff that you can use the minute you leave the class. You don't have to wait years gradually working your way up through the ranks. This is way different from any martial art and Justin and his amazing instructors keep it light and interesting without losing effectiveness. It is instantly useful. There isn't a situation that you can present to the instructors that they can't give you a dozen ways to handle. I felt empowered and more self-confident after the first class yet, at the same time, want more and more. In short, this stuff works. You don't have to be fancy to be effective. Love the instructors and love the camaraderie.

Justin Everman is an outstanding self-defense teacher and I highly recommend his self-defense class at ACWA! He focuses on practical self-defense techniques that can be used quickly in real world scenarios. He teaches physical self-defense training along with verbal and psychological self-defense methods. HIs methods are easy to apply in dangerous situations. Each week he will have a short lecture on a variety of dangerous scenarios and self-defense methods to counter possible threats. This is followed by hands on training where we put this material into practice! You always come away each week learning new methods for self-defense. And this builds your confidence that you can successfully protect yourself. Last but not least, Justin is a very positive, approachable and enthusiastic teacher! He brings great energy, insight and passion to his instruction. And the class is made up of very positive and supportive students. In closing, this is the class you need to take if you're looking for hands on, practical self-defense training that you can use quickly in a dangerous situation!

As a woman who travels frequently across the west coast for work, Justin and ACWA have been an excellent source of real world self defense training. Whether it be a private course, group lesson, or Urban Survival/ Escape course, every bit of material is applicable in the real world. The Urban Survival and Escape course is top notch training that you won’t receive just anywhere. Not only is the course educational but it’s also really FUN!

The A.C.W.A approach to defense is exactly what I have been looking for! I have studied a few forms of combat and self defense over the years and Justin and his team of instructors have got it down to what it should be. Real life scenarios, well thought out skills, expert demonstration, and plenty of practice. I enjoy every class and always leave feeling like I have a new tool that I can use for my personal defense. Great program and I highly recommend it.

I was really nervous to start a class like this with no background in anything, but once I started going, I felt more and more comfortable each week. Everyone is so welcoming, encouraging, and helpful that my awkardness and fear melted away and I was able to start learning very quickly. The teaching style is clear and organic and the atmosphere is playful and fun as beginners and veterans alike practice the moves. I feel more confident every time I attend a class, and the skills I've learned make me feel safer as I navigate the world as a single woman, constantly aware of my surroundings and how I can best protect myself in a bad situation.

Everyone always says, “you ladies need to be careful out there,” but never teach us how to protect ourselves. I googled “self defense classes” and this popped up! I was a little wary of the price, but gave it a try anyways.

ACWA has done an AMAZING job teaching me different methods and strategies on how to defend myself against various attacks, as well has how to carry myself in a way which makes me a less enticing target for offenders. We learn how to defend against various weaponry and hand-to-hand combat. They focus the most on disarming the assailant and escaping safely, using techniques I’ve never seen anywhere before. 10/10 recommend ACWA. It’s worth the price for peace of mind + confidence!